calumny

[ kal-uhm-nee ]

noun

, plural cal·um·nies.

1. a false and malicious statement designed to injure the reputation of someone or something:

   The speech was considered a calumny of the administration.

2. the act of uttering calumnies; slander; defamation.

   Synonyms: derogation, vilification

calumny

/ ˈkæləmnɪ /

noun

1. the malicious utterance of false charges or misrepresentation; slander; defamation
2. such a false charge or misrepresentation

Confusables Note

See slander.

Word History and Origins

Origin of calumny¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Latin calumnia, equivalent to calumn-, perhaps originally a participle of calvī “to deceive” + -ia -y ³ )

Word History and Origins

Origin of calumny¹

C15: from Latin calumnia deception, slander

Example Sentences

That brings us to the other calumnies Vance and Trump have directed at the Haitians in Springfield.

From Los Angeles Times

Sen. JD Vance, a Republican from Ohio and Trump's vice presidential nominee, made the rounds of the Sunday shows and doubled down on the calumny.

From Salon

Eastman portrays himself as a battling patriot who has been subjected to “false narratives and calumnies.”

From Los Angeles Times

But for Sakoda and others, his initial reaction — which included accusing the survivors of “calumny,” or slander — revealed what they believe is his true allegiance — protecting the church’s hierarchy.

From Los Angeles Times

Piemme said the book would expose the “blatant calumnies” and “dark maneuvers” that sullied Benedict’s reputation, but also celebrate his historic papacy and life.

From Seattle Times